Culture

10 reasons why the octopus is one of the most incredible creatures in the sea

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Octopuses are some of the most alien-looking creatures on the planet. With eight arms, over 1,000 suckers, and three hearts, they are unlike any other animal you could ever hope to meet.

What's more, they're smart — really smart. About 95% of the animals on Earth are invertebrates and guess who's the smartest of them all: the octopus!

To better acquaint you with this creature of the sea, we've compiled 10 of the most mind-blowing facts that we learned while reading Katherine Harmon Courage book, "Octopus!" Check them out, be amazed, and tell a friend!

Octopus facts_2017
Mike Nudelman/Business Insider

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Mike is Business Insider's graphics editor. He majored in printmaking at Cornell University and earned an MFA in painting and drawing from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. He previously worked as an illustrator in Groupon's Humor Department. He regularly exhibits his drawings.
Jessica Orwig
Jessica Orwig
Jessica Orwig is a senior editor at Business Insider, where she collaborates with reporters, editors, and producers across teams to shape, write, edit, and publish stories that connect with a global audience. While her roots are in science and technology journalism, her work today spans business, careers, culture, and the big ideas shaping the future.She earned her Master’s in Science & Technology Journalism from Texas A&M University and holds a Bachelor’s in Astronomy & Physics from The Ohio State University. Throughout her career, she’s helped lead coverage on everything from space exploration and climate change to innovation, the future of work, and evolving cultural trends.Career HighlightsLed coverage on scientific milestones, including:Reported on breaking news and scientific discoveries, including:Popular stories she’s edited on science and health:Popular stories she’s written and/or edited on careers, culture, life, and business: